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tali

talî with stress marks

string; cord; tie

noun ta-LI Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Tali is one of the most fundamental everyday nouns in Tagalog, covering anything from a thin thread to a thick rope used to tie or bind things. It forms many common words and phrases: magtali (to tie), itali (to tie something to something else), and pantali (something used for tying). Tali is also used metaphorically for bonds of obligation or affection.

Examples

Beginner

" May tali sa kahon. "

Natural Translation

There is a string on the box.

Literal Translation

There-is string on-the box.

Intermediate

" Kailangan ko ng tali para sa kahon. "

Natural Translation

I need a string for the box.

Literal Translation

Need I of string for box.

Advanced

" Itinali namin nang mahigpit ang mga dahon gamit ang tali para hindi sila magkalat habang inililipat. "

Natural Translation

We tied the leaves tightly with the cord so they wouldn't scatter while being moved.

Literal Translation

Tied we tightly the leaves using the string so not they scatter while being-moved.

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